Herbs are very low maintenance compared to other plants. How often do you have to prune your orchids or spray your roses? Comparatively, herbs can thrive in poor soil, need very little fertilizer and only occasional watering. As long as they get plenty of sun and some water, they will thrive by themselves – that’s why learning how to build an herb garden is easy!

That being said, you can’t just throw some seeds in the ground and expect a great garden. You need to have some basic herb garden plans before you start planting.

Because herbs can grow well in poor conditions, it is easy for them to overgrow. Lavender and yarrow can grow like wildfire over large areas. Even chives can proliferate quickly. Be sure you have enough space in your pot or garden for the plants you wish to grow.

You should be fine as long as your herb garden plans include about 1 foot of room between major areas. Chives are an example of an herb that grow well in a bunch. However the roots need a sufficient amount of nutrients and water and anything planted near them will have to compete for those.

Soil preparation for herbs is important when learning how to build an herb garden, but it is not difficult. A wide range of herbs will thrive on a mix of clay and sandy loam or a good compost. Be sure to provide sufficient drainage. A good amount of herbs originate from the Mediterranean, so they can thrive in somewhat dry and rocky soil. Their evolution occurred in areas with adequate drainage, but all herbs need watering. Be sure the soil is moist, but not soaking wet.

For example, Lavender and Sage are two herbs that are very drought resistant. For these two herbs, normal rainfall will probably be enough. Some herbs, like Peppermint, need more water. An automatic drip system is a good way for the conservation minded person to provide the extra needed water for these plants.

Landscape fabric is a great way to keep weeds from growing in your garden, ruining the beauty of your garden and choking out your precious herbs. Digging up weeds later can be tiring and frustrating, while using herbicides might kill your herbs since they have a similar makeup. You also do not want to spray poison on your future food supply.

Herbs have a good resistance to bugs. However, you might still want to include some “sacrifice” plants in your herb garden plans. For example Dill is an excellent “trap plant” that invites pests to it instead of your other plants.

The final thing to consider when learning how to build an herb garden is to know when to plant your herbs. Some thrive at different times of the season, some should be planted every 4 weeks. Knowing when to plant will insure a great crop.

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